Photo By Cpl. Paul Torres | Gunnery Sergeant Raymundo Perez, supply chief, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, stands...... read more read more
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ABOARD USS PELELIU -- Some say being a Marine is not just about doing what is asked of you. It is doing your best and then some, in and out of your daily work routine. For one Marine, giving one hundred and ten percent has led to nothing but success in his Marine Corps career.
On his fourth deployment, and second with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Gunnery Sergeant Raymundo Perez, supply chief, 15th MEU, received the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.
"I was raised to try my hardest at everything I do, in and out of the workplace," said Perez, the 28-year-old Porterville, Calif., native.
The MOVSM is given to servicemembers with an outstanding community service record. In addition to the long hours often required of a Marine, Perez dedicated his own free time to make his community a better place.
"From my time spent at recruiting duty to now, I try to volunteer whenever I can," explained Perez. "I've helped set up job fairs at schools, helped coordinate parades, and wrapped Christmas presents for the red-cross during Christmas time."
The medal is one of two recent accomplishments Perez has earned. Just last month he was meritoriously promoted to gunnery sergeant, a very rare achievement with extremely stringent requirements.
"I knew I had a good chance, I met all the requirements so It was really just a waiting game," said Perez.
The promotion did not surprise his chain of command. One Marine in particular saw it as inevitable.
"He's the epitome of what people think of when they are asked what a Marine is," explained Captain Michael Kanuik, supply and fiscal officer, 15th MEU. "He maintains an extreme physical fitness, has a strong work ethic, and leads by example."
Some might think because of his strong work ethic, working under him may be stressful and overbearing. However, one of his Marines explains it's exactly the opposite.
"Sometimes it gets stressful in the supply shop, especially before a deployment," explains Lance Cpl. Roberto Thomas, administrative supply clerk, 15th MEU. "[Perez] has always kept the work environment professional and productive but he makes sure we have fun."
Thomas explained that Perez looks out for everyone in the shop, makes sure they know their job well, and encourages his Marines to do their best.
"He always makes sure we look sharp and meet the requirements of being a Marine," said Thomas.
Marines are taught in recruit training that self-sacrifice is a cornerstone of being a Marine. Whether in combat or volunteering, Marines don't seek accolades. However, seeing a fellow Marine recognized for their hard work can have a ripple effect.
"Seeing [Perez] get meritoriously promoted as well as get his award really makes me feel like if I work hard someone will notice," said Thomas, a 22-year-old native of Eagle Pass, Texas. "He makes me want to work harder at my job and at being a Marine."
Perez continues to plan ahead for the future and always looks to get the most out of his time in the Marine Corps.
"I'm at a point in my career where I can say I accomplished all my goals as an enlisted Marine," explains Perez.
"After this deployment I will be looking into commissioning as an officer or warrant officer. I want to take advantage of everything the Marine Corps has to offer, to me it would be a waste not to."
For those looking to succeed in their Marine Corps career, Perez has some simple advice.
"Don't ever do the bare minimum, you only live once and you have to work hard for everything you get."
Perez is currently deployed aboard USS Peleliu with the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group as part of a routine deployment throughout the Western Pacific. His awards include three Navy Achievement Medals, four Certificates of Commendation and 15 Meritorious Masts.
| Date Taken: | 05.27.2010 |
| Date Posted: | 05.27.2010 23:17 |
| Story ID: | 50398 |
| Location: | USS PELELIU, USPACOM, AT SEA |
| Web Views: | 483 |
| Downloads: | 299 |
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